Yoga basics

Learning to do yoga can be intimidating, especially considering the poses that seem to defy gravity and the wide variety of class options. However, you don't need fancy equipment or the flexibility of a gymnast to practice yoga. As long as you get the basics, you can start your yoga journey to fitness.

Yoga is a practice that combines physical and spiritual aspects and originates from Indian philosophy. It has been around for thousands of years and offers a wide range of forms, from gentle, contemplative practices to more challenging physical workouts. Mind-body exercises usually involve performing a series of physical poses while practicing deep breathing techniques. 

To get started on yoga, you need to familiarize yourself with some basic poses, which are the building blocks of the practice. It is good to learn these as you build your yoga practice regularly. As you move through each pose, remember to breathe slowly and steadily. If a posture is challenging, take a break after completing it, especially if you're out of breath, and resume the pose once your breathing has returned to normal. The objective is to hold each pose for a few steady breaths before moving on to the next one.

The great thing about yoga is that it's accessible to everyone, regardless of age, weight, or fitness level. It's a powerful tool for calming the mind and strengthening the body. Don't be intimidated by yoga jargon, fancy studios, or difficult poses - anyone can practice yoga and reap its rewards.

Don't get discouraged if your first class does not go as planned. It may take a few classes to find a teacher who inspires and encourages you to practice regularly. Once you have chosen the right class structure and instructor, you will begin to feel more in control of your life.